News

Slingshot tops customer satisfaction again!

Slingshot has been named the best performing Broadband Provider in New Zealand for the second year in a row, according to the latest survey by consumer ratings organisation Canstar Blue.

Once again Slingshot was awarded 5 star ratings across all seven categories, including overall satisfaction, best reliability of service and best value for money.

In the highly competitive NZ broadband market Slingshot came out noticeably ahead of all the other New Zealand Telcos in the survey which canvassed 1,120 households.

Slingshot GM Taryn Hamilton says the company’s constant drive to offer new innovative products and services, combined with a dedication to strive for top customer service is the reason it won the award two years running.

“We’re big believers in loyalty, consistency and ensuring our customers always come first which is why we place huge importance, and put a lot of time into ensuring our in-house call centre is running smoothly.

“It’s also our mission to not only provide the best value Broadband in New Zealand but also provide our customers with products and features that stand out from the rest.”

In a statement Canstar General Manager Derek Bonnar said: “Slingshot has done a great job in maintaining their performance, upholding last year’s ratings with full marks across the categories from their very satisfied customers.”

The Canstar award comes on the back of a bumper year for Slingshot which included opening up Global Mode for all of its customers and offering handy and unique services such as data only plans.

Slingshot to launch Global Mode region-switcher

Posted 19th February 2015

Slingshot is upgrading its Global Mode service so Kiwi Netflix users can switch between regions.

The region-switching function makes it easy to toggle between the US, UK, and New Zealand versions of Netflix.

Slingshot General Manager Taryn Hamilton says the region-switcher is designed to make it easy for people to watch content from different Netflix catalogues.

“We welcome Netflix to New Zealand. Kiwis have been singing out for this service, and it’s fantastic it’s launching.

“But because initially the Netflix New Zealand content is likely to be weaker than overseas catalogues, users will want to switch to alternative regions to get the content they want.

“That’s why we are implementing region-switching, which will allow our customers to watch a range of Netflix catalogues.”

The region switching feature will launch in March free-of-charge to Slingshot customers.

Hamilton says while a range of streaming services have launched lately, he expects Netflix to quickly become dominant, due to its ease of use, lower price, and large international catalogue accessible via Global Mode.

The state of the internet

That’s what analysis of statistics from the CallPlus network, which includes Slingshot, Orcon and Flip, and represents 15 per cent of New Zealand’s telco market, has found.

Slingshot General Manager Taryn Hamilton says one of the most interesting trends is the increase in paid streaming which directly corresponds with the decrease in peer-to-peer file sharing on the CallPlus network.

“Our statistics show that BitTorent traffic is dropping at the same rate that paid streaming is increasing, which gives an indication that people are trading piracy for paid streaming.

“That’s great news because one of the main reasons we opened up Global Mode last year was to give New Zealanders access to the same content people overseas had.”

Other statistics from CallPlus include:

A quarter of Kiwi Internet traffic goes to Google and YouTube, with both websites coming out on top along with Facebook and Trade Me

Rapidly climbing in popularity are sites such as Netflix, BBC’s iPlayer, live gaming website twitch.tv-live, and other streaming TV services

The number of new customers choosing an unlimited plan doubled last year

While unlimited customers are still a minority, they use a large portion of overall bandwidth

An average unlimited fibre user consumed eight times the bandwidth of an average copper data-cap customer

Last year average data consumption per household increased 40% and this is certain to increase further in 2015

More Kiwis are importing goods direct from China, with aliexpress.com breaking into the top 25 most popular websites list. Sites such as aliexpress, along with dx.com and dhgate.com, have increased in popularity because they offer free international shipping to New Zealand.

Meanwhile, Hamilton’s predictions for 2015 include:

The arrival of 4K streaming, although it will remain niche and there will be no need to ditch copper just yet with new compression technologies being developed which should enable 4K over copper

Streaming services will result in a much higher percentage of traffic served from within New Zealand due to local Content Delivery Networks

The number of streaming video services will increase dramatically after Netflix’s NZ launch in March

Dunedin will average the highest data consumption per household thanks to Gigatown

Unlimited data plans will become the default

When mobile data is all you ever need

Posted 24th November 2014

Ivanah Penita doesn’t call people – ever. Okay, maybe when there’s an emergency or she needs to get hold of someone urgently she will call.

But Ivanah pretty much communicates by messaging via Facebook, Whatsapp or email.

The Auckland student is among a growing number of data only mobile phone users who communicate by messaging using their phones rather than calling.

Ivanah has been using data to communicate for two years because it is quicker, easier, and, importantly, cheaper because she’s not making expensive phone calls.

“For me it's just an easier way of communicating with people because most of my friends are on social media and they respond much quicker via Facebook or email – even quicker than texting,” she says.

Slingshot, New Zealand’s third largest ISP, has responded to this data only trend by launching a mobile plan especially for customers who only need data.

The 1GB data only plan is designed for people who do most of their messaging via apps, or for those with a second mobile device such as an iPad. And just in case, if a customer needs calling minutes or unlimited texts then these are also available as part of the plan.

Ivanah, who is not a Slingshot customer, says she is able to use her data efficiently by using it when she is out and about, but at home or at university then wifi is the best option.

Slingshot was alerted to the need for the data only plan after asking staff how they used their mobiles.

Lai Tupuola, from Slingshot, converted to data only use two years ago when his girlfriend moved to Japan.

The couple resolved that instead of expensive phone calls, and endless texts, using Facebook and chat apps was the most cost effective yet reliable way to stay in touch.

“All I need is mobile data or a wifi hotspot and I can send countless messages without the charges,” he says.

Slingshot GM Taryn Hamilton says globally mobile data traffic grew 83 per cent last year and this growth is reflected in Slingshot’s customer usage patterns with data use doubling every 18-months across both home broadband and mobile plans.

“We’re entering a new era of mobile use. We’re seeing people drop calling and texting in favour of cheaper and easier ways to communicate.”

“It’s a trend driven by younger users – but is increasingly becoming mainstream. We’ve responded with an innovative plan that allows users to buy lots of data at a decent price.”

Slingshot’s $19 a month mobile plan features 1GB of data. Users can text and call on casual rates if they choose.

Slingshot website a winner

Posted 17th November 2014

Slingshot’s website, designed by digital agency Gladeye, has won Best in Class at the Interactive Media Awards, beating more than 60 other entrants in the telecommunications category.

The Best in Class award is the highest honour given out by the IMAs, with only a small number of websites achieving the status each year.

Websites are scored using five criteria, with a score from 0-100 awarded for each. The Slingshot website scored 488 out of 500, with perfect 100s for content and feature functionality, as well as 98 for design, 97 for usability, and 93 for standards compliance.

The IMA’s said the Slingshot website represented the very best in planning, execution and overall professionalism.

“In order to win this award level, [Slingshot’s website] had to successfully pass through our comprehensive judging process, achieving very high marks in each of our judging criteria - an achievement only a fraction of sites in the IMA competition earn each year.”

Slingshot general manager Taryn Hamilton says the Best in Class award is confirmation that the re-launch of the website earlier this year had been a huge success. Since launch, the website has increased online conversions by 250% and reduced cost of acquisition by 70%.

“We wanted to make the site the best and easiest to use in class, and it’s great to get recognition for what we think is the slickest broadband sign-up process around.”

“We have a clear mandate at Slingshot, and that is to focus on making customers happy through great service, great prices and easy processes. This is just the first step in a brand evolution to make Slingshot the country’s leading broadband provider.”

Gladeye Managing Director Tarver Graham says his design team worked to reduce the pain points that caused people to drop out of the signup process. “We worked closely with Slingshot’s BAs, tech and customer support teams to launch a site that’s as efficient as possible. I’m really happy with the results we’ve seen so far, but we’ll keep optimising to stay on top.”

Consumers want answers, yet companies fail to Front Up

Posted 17th September 2014

New Zealanders are paying a premium for products but the companies who set the prices either don’t care or are refusing to justify their mark ups, according to Frontup.co.nz.

Big name companies, including Fonterra, Apple, and Nike, were asked by Frontup to explain the excessive prices Kiwis pay for the goods and services they provide, but all three failed to respond.

While the likes of Samsung, Steinlager and NZ Beef and Lamb did respond, of the almost 30 products and services reviewed in the past three weeks on the website, the majority of companies targeted did not take the opportunity of a right of reply.

Frontup.co.nz, which is written by a team of independent journalists and backed by Kiwi-owned ISP Slingshot, reviews the price of goods, compares the price to other countries, and then asks brands and companies to explain themselves by “fronting up” to give their reasoning for the premium cost of the product.

Slingshot general manager Taryn Hamilton says it’s clear from the hundreds of comments and responses on the Front Up Facebook page that consumers want answers about why they are paying so much.

“It’s just a shame most businesses couldn’t be bothered to respond, or seemingly don’t care about the high prices consumers are paying for their products.

“But probably the biggest reason these companies don’t want to front up is because there is no excuse for the higher prices New Zealanders pay compared to people overseas.”

The price of milk was one of the most startling cost differentials, with Fonterra’s Dairy Dale brand costing $1.70 per litre. In US a litre of milk costs the equivalent of NZ$1.20 and in Britain NZ$0.86. This is after taking into consideration our GST and exchange rate differences.

Fonterra, New Zealand’s biggest company, made contact only after stories about Frontup’s investigations, including the price of milk, were highlighted in a Sunday newspaper story and on TV One’s Breakfast. However, it didn’t follow through with a written response and justification for its prices.

Other examples of sky high Kiwi prices include:

Nikes - $220 in NZ, equivalent of NZ$131 in US

Sunglasses - $274.90 in NZ, equivalent of NZ$185.00 in US

iTunes (NZers pay 35% more for same music as Americans)

Lipstick ($19.99 at Warehouse, equivalent of NZ$6.65 in US)

Hamilton says consumers should continue the cost conversation that has been sparked by Front Up and make companies more accountable – and ultimately force them to front up.

“The goal of Front Up was to make sure Kiwis are treated fairly, and charged fair prices. That’s clearly not happening and now it’s time for the consumer to take the price they pay for goods and services into their own hands.”

He says there are a number of ways to do this, including everything from buying direct and importing goods from overseas, to contacting retailers and importers, local MPs, and Consumer Affairs Minister, Craig Foss, to complain.

“People don’t need to take the sticker price of an item as being what they have to pay. Everything is negotiable. Haggle and barter with retailers because they would rather have a lesser margin than not have a sale at all.”

Time to Front Up on inflated NZ prices

Posted 25th August 2014

The excessive prices Kiwi consumers pay for many products and services compared to what they cost overseas is the focus of new website Frontup.co.nz.

Written by a team of independent journalists, Frontup.co.nz reviews the price of goods, compares the price to other countries, and then asks brands and companies to explain themselves by “fronting up” to give their reasoning for the premium cost of the product.

Consumers can have their say about whether the company’s pricing argument stands up by clicking “Yeah” or “Nah”, and then comment via Facebook and Twitter about the cost and quality of the product.

Front Up, which is backed by Slingshot’s Global Mode, covers a wide range of goods and services, including everything from Apple’s iPhone 5S, Sony Playstation 4 and Windows 8.1, through to consumer staples such as bread, milk and coffee.

And with the current construction boom and New Zealand’s DIY obsession, Front Up also casts a critical eye over the price of products such as glass and plasterboard.

“The goal of Front Up is simple – to make sure Kiwis are treated fairly, and charged fair prices,” says Slingshot General Manager Taryn Hamilton.

“There might be a good reason for the high price, but I’m picking most of the time there won’t be. We might be a small country tucked down in the far corner of the world but that doesn’t mean we should be taken advantage of and asked to pay excessive prices for things like Nikes or even basics such as bread and milk.”

Front Up will be updated every week with new products. Its current reviews include:

iPhone 5S – New Zealanders pay $161 more than US consumers

Sony Playstation 4 – $100 more than in the US

Milk – Fonterra’s Dairy Dale brand – is $1.70 per litre. In US a litre of milk costs the equivalent of NZ$1.20 and in Britain NZ$0.86. This is even after taking into consideration our GST and exchange rate differences.

When Samsung was asked to Front Up with its reasoning for its Galaxy S5 costing $150 more than in the US, it responded by saying while the company’s New Zealand wholesale prices are comparable with those in other markets, local retailers need to factor in other costs.

“These include things like import duties, goods and services taxes, as well as installation and service policies, marketing promotions, competitiveness, retail channels and logistics,” said the company statement.

Hamilton says the idea for Front Up came about because the team at Slingshot wanted to know why Kiwis seemingly paid more for things than people in other countries.

“We believe it’s important to give consumers transparency, but to also put pressure on big name brands and companies that sell these products to justify these prices properly for consumers.”

Buy Broadband with Bitcoin

Posted 10th July 2014

Last week Slingshot flicked the switch on Global Mode, and now the ISP is offering savvy Kiwi web users the chance to pay their broadband bill with Bitcoin.

Slingshot GM Taryn Hamilton says it’s another unique service that Slingshot wanted to offer its customers.

He believes the Bitcoin option will appeal to the small, but passionate Bitcoin user base.

“We’re a web company, so it seems fitting to accept the world’s premier web currency, and just like we did with Global Mode we’re always looking to improve our service and offer our customers access to top notch products.”

Payment will be taken at the current Bitcoin to NZD exchange rate and the customer’s account marked as paid.

The transactions will be processed by a third party – Bitpay, with no Bitcoins being held by Slingshot.

Slingshot believes it’s the largest New Zealand company to accept Bitcoin.

“The popularity of Bitcoin continues to rise and you can now even purchase them from Bitcoin ATMs like the one located Inside the Mr Barber shop at 360 Queen Street,” says Hamilton.

The practice is also growing in popularity overseas, with more than 30,000 business and charities – including Virgin Galactic and Wordpress – accepting Bitcoin payments.

As well as its market leading broadband prices, including its $89 Unlimited plan, and Global Mode, Slingshot has a range of other innovative products such as Rollover Data and an online storage association with MEGA which adds significant value to its customers.

Slingshot opens up Global Content

Posted 4th July 2014

Slingshot has today unshackled many of the world’s leading video streaming sites.

Services such as Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime and BBC iPlayer will now be able to be accessed by all Slingshot customers.

These services geographically restrict which countries can access them. But today the country’s third largest Broadband provider has turned on its Global Mode for all customers – ensuring access to the world’s best content.

Slingshot GM Taryn Hamilton says the ISP believes the time has come for New Zealanders to have the same amazing choice of content that those in America and Europe have.

“We know Kiwis want to watch movies and TV series online – but are blocked from using the world’s best and most popular streaming services. We are now giving Kiwis access to these sites – and an option to pay for the content they want to watch at a fair price.”

Hamilton says many Kiwis are frustrated with a poor selection of content at a significantly higher cost than those in other countries are offered, and for no good reason.

“Either that or they are choosing to pirate the content they want to watch. So giving access to all the great streaming services will give Kiwis much greater choice and an option to pay for content they otherwise may not have been able to.

“The limited access New Zealanders have to content that is widely available overseas is an issue that needs to be addressed.

“There is no valid argument as to why New Zealanders are paying much more for the same content as others in the world. We shouldn’t tolerate it. This issue extends far beyond TV and Movies, with Kiwis paying significantly more for many technology services and products from the world’s biggest brands than in many other countries.”

Smart Kiwi consumers have already turned to online shopping in a bid to get goods at a fair price.

“People know they can go online, and save $100 on a pair of Nikes. It's just smart shopping. This is the same, but for content."

Studies show that many Kiwis are pirating content. A recent survey by Horizon Research showed that more than one fifth of the 2700 respondents had downloaded content illegally.

“We know that people would prefer to pay a reasonable price for the content they want to watch rather than pirating it. It’s time the content providers and rights holders got their act together and offered Kiwis the same content – for the same price – that people in other parts of the world have access to.

“Until they do, people will need to use a service like Global Mode to pay for top-quality online content, or continue to steal it."

Notes on Global Mode:

The service is included by default and for free.

Customers do not need to do anything other than type the website they want to access in their browser as normal.

Content sites now accessible include Amazon Prime, Hulu, Netflix US and BBC iPlayer.

New Zealand based websites will not be impacted. For example content sites like TVNZ on Demand will continue to work as normal.

Slingshot’s seven day moving house guarantee

Posted 13th May 2014

If you are moving house, Slingshot is guaranteeing your internet will be ready to go by the time you move in. Because let’s face it, when you’re up to your neck in boxes, and lugging fridges and washing machines around, the last thing you want to think about is whether your broadband has been connected.

If you are moving house, Slingshot is guaranteeing your internet will be ready to go by the time you move in.

Because let’s face it, when you’re up to your neck in boxes, and lugging fridges and washing machines around, the last thing you want to think about is whether your Broadband has been connected.

Under the company’s new 7 Day Moving House Guarantee, all existing and new customers have to do is give seven days notice that they are moving and Slingshot will guarantee their Broadband is up and running at the new address.

And if it’s not, then the price you pay for your monthly base plan will be free for the first two months in your new home*.

Slingshot GM Taryn Hamilton says many peoples’ experience of moving house has been spoiled by long delays getting their internet connected and the endless excuses some company’s offer for it not working.

“It shouldn’t be like that, especially because Broadband is such a fundamental part of peoples’ lives these days. It should be an easy transition and really, it should just happen.

“This guarantee is all about easing the hassle of moving house, because it’s stressful enough as it is. And besides, just imagine not being able to order pizza online or find out where the nearest bottle store is on Google maps after a long, hard day moving furniture and unpacking boxes.”

The new guarantee is open to existing customers and those wanting to join Slingshot if they are moving address.

The 7 Day Moving House Guarantee is another example of Slingshot’s commitment to customer service and testament to its standing as the best performing broadband provider in New Zealand. Earlier this year the company won the “Most Satisfied Customers” award in a survey by consumer ratings organisation Canstar Blue.

As well as its market leading broadband prices, including its $89 Unlimited plan, Slingshot has a range of innovative products such as Global Mode, Rollover Data and an online storage association with MEGA which adds significant value to its customers.

Unlimited Broadband price war heats up

Posted 4th May 2014

Slingshot has dropped the price of its unlimited broadband plans by $10 to $89 a month for ADSL and Ultra-Fast Broadband plans. The move undercuts new entrants to the unlimited market, Spark and Vodafone, and reaffirms Slingshot’s dedication to leading the market. Slingshot has dropped the price of its unlimited broadband plans by $10 to $89 a month for ADSL and Ultra-Fast Broadband plans.

The move undercuts new entrants to the unlimited market, Spark and Vodafone, and reaffirms Slingshot’s dedication to leading the market.

Slingshot has been offering unlimited plans for more than two years, and the late entrance of Vodafone and Spark highlights their slowness to respond to consumer need, says Slingshot GM Taryn Hamilton.

“Slingshot’s unlimited customers have been benefiting from data bill certainty and the freedom to do what they want online for a couple of years now so Spark and Vodafone are a little late to the party.

“The cynic in me says the big boys have known that people want to go unlimited, but have waited until the last possible moment to introduce these plans – in the same week and at the same price mind you – as they maximise their profits in the meantime.”

Slingshot’s unlimited broadband plan is its most popular plan for new customers and an example of the company’s focus on delivering not only great prices but innovative products and services.

“Our aim is to give customers the best value unlimited broadband service in New Zealand so they can do everything they need to do online without being restricted by the amount of data they are using,” says Hamilton.

The new price also reinforces Slingshot’s standing as the best performing broadband provider in New Zealand after winning the “Most Satisfied Customers” award in a survey earlier this year by consumer ratings organisation Canstar Blue.

Slingshot received an unprecedented 5 star rating across all seven broadband categories, including value for money, speed, and overall satisfaction.

On top of its competitively priced broadband plans, Slingshot also has a range of other innovative products such as Global Mode, Rollover Data and an online storage association with MEGA which adds significant value to its customers.

Slingshot tops customer satisfaction in NZ!

Posted 11th February 2014

Slingshot has been named the best performing Broadband Provider in New Zealand, according to a recent nationwide survey by consumer ratings organisation Canstar Blue. Slingshot was awarded the “Most Satisfied Customers” for Broadband award after the recent survey of 1,095 households. They were not only the clear winner but also received an unprecedented 5 star ratings across all seven categories, including overall satisfaction, value for money and speed.

Slingshot has been named the best performing Broadband Provider in New Zealand, according to a recent nationwide survey by consumer ratings organisation Canstar Blue.

Slingshot was awarded the “Most Satisfied Customers” for Broadband award after the recent survey of 1,095 households. They were not only the clear winner but also received an unprecedented 5 star ratings across all seven categories, including overall satisfaction, value for money and speed.

In the highly competitive local broadband market Slingshot beat off all other Telco’s across the country to grab the overall prize.

Slingshot GM Taryn Hamilton believes Slingshot’s drive towards delivering innovative products and services, at the same time as striving for exceptional customer service, made them a clear front runner for the award.

“Our aim is to not only give customers the best value Broadband services in New Zealand, but also provide them with additional features, products and customer service that really improves their online experience.”

Over the course of the last 12 months Slingshot has launched a range of products and services that have been widely applauded by consumers, as well as setting about to create one of the best customer service experiences in New Zealand. Its ongoing commitment to invest in local call centre staff has underpinned this.

On top of this, Innovative releases like Global Mode, Rollover Data and a recent association with MEGA have all added significant value for Slingshot customers and made Slingshot stand out as an industry leader.

On top of its competitively priced broadband plans, Slingshot also has a range of other innovative products such as Global Mode, Rollover Data and an online storage association with MEGA which adds significant value to its customers.

Changes to Credit Reporting Practices

Slingshot is making significant changes to our credit reporting practices.

On 1 April 2012, changes to credit reporting privacy code came into effect. These changes affect the way credit information is shared with credit reporting agencies.

Before 1 April 2012 only negative information, such as defaults and bad debt, could be held on credit file, which made it hard for some people to access credit. The above changes to the code mean that from now on both negative and positive information will be held by credit reporting agencies. This will help people prove their credit worthiness and for those who once had credit difficulties, to show how they have recovered and restored their credit value.

From now on Slingshot will be supplying its customer’s credit information to credit reporting agencies on a monthly basis. This information may be held by the credit reporting agency for up to 2 years.

Slingshot will also share the following with credit reporting agencies: information to ensure that those agencies are able to accurately identify individuals, information about an individual’s credit accounts (such as type of accounts and amount of credit), information relating to the circumstances of any credit default, and information about credit non-compliance action.

If you have any questions around this, please give our Finance Team a call on 0800 892 733. The finance department is open 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.

Slingshot’s Ultra-Fast Broadband prices to shake up industry

Posted 4th December 2013

Slingshot launches its aggressively priced Ultra-Fast Broadband plans today in a move to drive the sort of uptake that the Ultra-Fast Broadband initiative needs and deserves. At the end of September only 14, 000 of the over 320,000 users who were able to connect had done so, a very disappointing result says Slingshot General Manager Taryn Hamilton.

Slingshot launches its aggressively priced Ultra-Fast Broadband plans today in a move to drive the sort of uptake that the Ultra-Fast Broadband initiative needs and deserves.

At the end of September only 14, 000 of the over 320,000 users who were able to connect had done so, a very disappointing result says Slingshot General Manager Taryn Hamilton.

“The UFB initiative is extremely important for the NZ economy and Kiwi taxpayers are investing an enormous amount.” says Hamilton.

“Ultra-Fast Broadband is set to revolutionise the way people live their lives and companies do business, but it won’t deliver anything unless people get behind it. We want all households and businesses to grab the opportunity as soon as the network is available to them.”

Slingshot today launches Ultra-Fast Broadband plans starting from just $69 per month (including Homeline) - making it the cheapest residential Fibre plan in the country.

“We want to drive as much demand as possible by launching the best value residential Fibre plans in the country.”

Along with the $69 Ultra-Fibre plan (up to 30Mbps downloads) there are a range of other options including Unlimited for $99. The Ultra-Fibre Pro plans (up to 100Mbps downloads) range from $99 to $139.

There are also a stack of other great features included at no extra cost such as Rollover Data, Global Mode and a free MEGA account with 500GB of online storage.

Slingshot also launches its Ultra-VDSL plans today, a no fuss Broadband upgrade which gives customers that can’t yet access Fibre much faster speeds and greater capacity than standard broadband. Prices start from $84 for a 40GB bundle and also include an Unlimited plan for $109.

Mark Callander, Chief Executive Officer of Slingshot, says New Zealanders have been waiting far too long for these types of OTT content services that are common throughout the rest of the world. Broadband services have improved considerably over the last five years and the technology is ready to be leveraged.

“This bold move by Coliseum to secure the rights for online streaming of the EPL highlights what Kiwis have been missing out on due to the tightly controlled access and availability of such content, to the detriment of the New Zealand public.”

Slingshot will proudly support this move by not charging customers for data usage when they subscribe and watch EPL matches via Coliseum.

“Our customers will enjoy high quality streaming of EPL matches without having to worry about their monthly data caps which is a massive benefit to all our customers throughout the country,

“We look forward to meeting with Coliseum and discussing how we can contribute to the on-going success of this exciting initiative.” concludes Callander.

Slingshot grants global access

Posted 18th June 2013

The world’s largest Kiwi-owned and operated telecommunications company, Slingshot, has launched a new product called Global Mode, aimed at providing overseas visitors with similar internet accessibility as they would have in their country.

Scott Page, General Manager of Slingshot, says overseas visitors who benefit from rich online experiences back home, will no longer have to feel like second class internet citizens when they are visiting New Zealand.

Historically, international internet users have been impeded from accessing some of the content and websites that they would regularly enjoy at home, creating a negative impression of New Zealand’s broadband and communication capabilities.

“We're passionate about the potential of broadband and what it has to offer, and in particular, the growing number of rich cloud and content services that are currently being developed. Unfortunately, New Zealanders are comparatively hobbled in their access to many international services with broadband.

“While Global Mode doesn't necessarily change the online landscape for New Zealand consumers today; it does improve the experience for international visitors to our country,” says Page.

Although Slingshot’s new product is a service that is already available in many other countries around the world, it is only intended to be used by international visitors in New Zealand.

“We hope the launch of Global Mode will encourage discussion about the restrictions New Zealand broadband consumers face when it comes to internet access and the availability of overseas content,” continues Page.

Global Mode is available free to all Slingshot broadband customers, who can add the facility online via their Slingshot account.

The capabilities of Global Mode will grow to meet the needs and demands of the increasing number of tourists from all around the world.

Disclaimer: Slingshot is proudly 100% kiwi owned and operated, and is the fourth largest ISP in New Zealand. Slingshot has deployed the largest Unbundled Local Loop network in New Zealand, having built access to over 150 exchanges throughout New Zealand. Slingshot is focused on delivering a great kiwi service and creating local jobs with all staff, including the Contact Centre, based in New Zealand.

Slingshot Fibre connects Kiwis to Ultra-Fast Broadband

Posted 15th September 2012

Slingshot is once again leading the telco industry as one of the first providers in New Zealand to connect customers to the new Ultra-Fast Broadband (UFB) network.

Slingshot already offers its customers some of the biggest broadband data plans in the country, and is strengthening its offering with UFB internet speeds up to 10 times faster than that of traditional copper lines.

Slingshot’s Chief Executive, Mark Callander, says that their commitment to providing high speed broadband to New Zealanders will forever change the way we use the internet.

“We believe that high speed internet is a game changer in terms of the way we use the internet and the opportunities it opens up in both the personal and commercial space. For this reason, Slingshot will continue to invest heavily in the UFB network and the future of New Zealand’s broadband services. We want our customers to enjoy the benefits of high speed fibre without worrying about the cost.”

Slingshot fibre is exceedingly fast, delivering speeds up to 100Mbps. The new fibre plans, which come with a homeline and broadband, also include a number of freebies, from free voicemail, call waiting, to a do-not-disturb function.

Another New Zealand first being unveiled as part of the introduction to UFB is Slingshot’s new data rollover feature, which sees any unused data each month rolled over into the next – ensuring all Slingshot customers get every cent of value out of their internet package.

Callander is excited about the possibilities that UFB is bringing all New Zealanders.

“Fibre at this speed changes your entire experience on the internet. Whether you’re sharing holiday videos and photos with family, video calling friends overseas or streaming online TV and movies, it all becomes instantaneous. It is the next progression of connectivity in this country and as we begin to move forward into faster speeds and bigger data caps it can only be a good thing.”

“It’s an exciting time. Our first fibre customer is now connected and up and running with great speeds and we will be connecting with all of our customers to keep them up to date on when Fibre will be landing in their neighbourhood and how they can get started.” concludes Callander.

Free wireless router and standard installation on a 24-month contract.

*Customers on TURBO plans can expect 3-4 times faster experience at peak times when downloading content from international web sites when compared to non-TURBO plans (which are still very fast). Peak usage times are typically in the evenings from 6pm-10pm. All TURBO plans have higher throughput for downloading from international web sites to ensure a more consistent and better experience at all times of the day. If this is important to you, we recommend you select a TURBO plan.

To find out more about Slingshot Fibre pricing and being part of the future of broadband register your interest here.

Slingshot first ISP to unmeter Quickflix, more unmetering planned!

Posted 26th March 2012

Despite already offering NZ’s biggest broadband data plans, Slingshot is establishing a range of content partnerships so even more internet content can be ‘unmetered’ for its customers.

Taking the lead ahead of all other ISPs, Slingshot is today announcing itself as the first ISP to unmeter NZ's newest online movie subscription service, Quickflix.

“It is great to see new business models emerging with players such as Quickflix and Spotify now focusing on the NZ market. This is good for competition and consumer choice in the longer term, and even better for Slingshot’s customers who can access this content for free.”

Callander continues “By extending our free data policy to Quickflix, Slingshot is playing a very important role in the delivery of this service and most ISPs will probably follow suit. Given the relatively low monthly data caps in NZ compared with overseas, customers could very quickly hit their monthly limit and incur additional charges - we don’t want our Slingshot customers to have to worry about data caps and it is time we caught up with the rest of the world.”

Quickflix CEO Chris Taylor said "We applaud the decision by Slingshot to unmeter our service. In doing so, Slingshot has identified the appeal and likely uptake of services like ours, and want to ensure their customers can enjoy the benefits of Quickflix without concern for their data caps. In the current environment, access to premium zero-rated content will be a key consideration for consumers when choosing their ISP."

Callander concluded “the United States has for some time enjoyed subscription-based online movies and TV shows on services such as Netflix, which now accounts for 30% of all online data traffic in the USA. Until now, we have been deprived of access to such services and we are delighted to be a part of this emerging content market in NZ."

Slingshot Unbundles 100 Exchanges Nationwide

Posted 12th October 2011

Slingshot has New Zealand’s fastest growing unbundled Local Loop Network (LLU), aptly named the Better Network. Since 2010 they have unbundled over 100 exchanges from Whangarei to Invercargill making them the largest provider of LLU in the country.

Slingshot is committed to ensuring New Zealander’s have a choice. Over the last 18 months the company invested millions of dollars to install the infrastructure and hardware required to deliver its innovative services over the Better Network throughout the country.

75% of Slingshot’s LLU exchanges have been installed outside of Auckland. This demonstrates the company’s commitment to all of New Zealand, particularly in the regions that have been under served for years.

CEO Mark Callander says “the Better Network is unique because it enables Slingshot to provide extremely competitive prices and enhanced services for its customers, including faster broadband speeds and an improved overall experience. This is due to the end to end control of the service from a performance perspective.”

Mark Callander says “We are in full control of the network deployment and it has been designed to eliminate the bottlenecks that have frustrated customers for years. We’ve made a big investment so our customers benefit from unconstrained broadband speeds. This has involved doubling our international capacity along with a significant investment in local and national backhaul. As a result, we’re proud to offer our customers some of the best speeds in the country.”

In addition to broadband, unlike the other Telco’s Slingshot’s Better Network bundles provide customers with a cheaper homeline service with rich features automatically included. Customers can enjoy over 20 smart phone features absolutely free and these cost $25 or more for similar services from other Telco’s. The Better Network means that Slingshot can provide additional value for its customers.

Mark Callander says “with over 30% of our customers already on our network we are committed to reaching 50% within the next 6-8 months. This is a fantastic opportunity for as many New Zealanders as possible to experience better homeline and broadband at affordable prices, so they should check it out today.”

CallPlus and Slingshot target the Mobile market

Posted 26th September 2011

CallPlus and Slingshot are switching to Spark Wholesale CallPlus and Slingshot are switching to Spark Wholesale to provide its customers with faster, flexible and more competitive mobile services through the Spark 3G Network.

As a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO), CallPlus and Slingshot had previously used Vodafone, however a review of the service offering by Spark has prompted the decision to change.

Mark Callander, CEO of the CallPlus Group, says the decision was driven by the need to ensure both the business and residential arms of the group were providing its customers with a mobile network that kept pace with technology and innovation while maintaining price competitiveness.

“This decision allows both brands the flexibility to offer customers great value and a compelling mobile proposition in all market segments, including prepay, residential, SME and corporate.”

“The use of Smartphones has grown dramatically in the last couple of years and they are now an essential tool for many people. The Spark network is designed for Smartphones and moving mobile data around the country at ultra-fast speeds.”

According to independent research* the Spark XT network in Central Auckland has the best download and upload speed for users accessing the web on their mobile phones.

“We have some big ambitions for driving growth in mobile services over the next few years and we believe the Spark Wholesale team is the right partner to help us achieve these goals. Soon we’ll be able to offer even better data plans and we will also be launching some new Smartphone and group data packages,” says Callander.

In the coming weeks both CallPlus and Slingshot will be contacting all their customers to explain the transition to the Spark Network and the benefits it will bring to their mobile services.

“Our aim is to make the move as seamless as possible for our customers and we believe that once they experience the benefits of the Spark mobile network they will be pleased we made the decision to change,” concludes Callander.

CallPlus and Slingshot give Auckland City and its Rugby World Cup visitors FREE WiFi

Posted 4th September 2011

CallPlus and Slingshot this week announced that they are providing a free WiFi service to the city of Auckland for the duration of the Rugby World Cup.

As CallPlus CEO Mark Callander says, “this is our contribution to the city of Auckland. We want to help showcase Auckland as a great place to do business by making it quick and easy to get connected. It takes just one click to use our free service and it does not require tokens, apply time restrictions or have a complicated sign up process.”

“Our visitors must get convenient access to the internet to keep in touch with family and friends, and most importantly avoid paying excessive mobile roaming charges. With average global roaming prices at $10 per Mb, 1GB of usage would cost a user $10,000 – that makes for an expensive holiday!”

“Many visitors will have a smart mobile device which are becoming very popular and we are committed to helping them make the most of this technology. We have deployed almost half of the planned 1,000 hot spots within the coverage area of the Auckland Central Business District, the Viaduct, Ponsonby, Grey Lynn, Herne Bay and Freemans Bay.”

"Callander continues “the WiFi access points have been offered to all bars, restaurants, hotels, motels and any place where large numbers of people are expected to meet. If any business located in these coverage areas would like to offer an obligation free WiFi service, simply go to www.rugbysupporters.co.nz and request WiFi hot spot. It is simply plug and play.”

“We are seeing very quick uptake with over 50Gb of traffic per day on the network which is amazing, but it is a reflection of how easy the service is to use. All people have to do is click on the ‘CallPlus Rugby Supporters’ or ‘Slingshot Rugby Supporters’ and you’re away. Give it a go.”

“The service is being delivered over our own 4G Wireless network so it is independent of other initiatives designed to provide a similar service. This is great for Auckland and its visitors and should result in a positive customer experience that should spread to their friends and family around the world.”